Victim’s name released in fatal Diamond Valley collision

In this file photo, emergency personnel respond to a fatal collision on SR-18, Washington County, Utah, April 2, 2017 | Photo by Joseph Witham, St. George News

ST. GEORGE – The name of a teenage girl killed Sunday night in a collision near Diamond Valley has been released by authorities.

The collision occurred when a Chevrolet passenger car made a left turn from Diamond Valley Drive but turned into the path of a Dodge pickup truck that was traveling north on state Route 18. The driver of the pickup was unable to stop in time and struck the Chevrolet.

In this file photo, a Dodge pickup truck sustains heavy damage after being involved in a fatal collision on SR-18, Washington County, Utah, April 2, 2017 | Photo by Joseph Witham, St. George News

Abbigayl Kraushaar, 17, of St. George, was driving the Chevrolet and died in the crash as a result of severe injuries.

A passenger in the Chevrolet, a woman in her late teens or early 20s, was able to get herself out of the car after the accident. She was treated at the scene and then transported to the hospital in stable condition, Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Larry Mower said.

The driver of the pickup truck, a 19-year-old man, was wearing a seat belt and was not injured, Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Joe Pastor told St. George News Sunday night.

Mower confirmed Monday that the driver of the pickup truck was not injured and refused medical treatment at the scene of the accident.

Kraushaar was not wearing a seatbelt, Mower said, but probably would not have survived the impact even if she had been buckled up.

“Due to the nature of the impact and the (way the) truck came into the driver’s doors like it did, I don’t think it would have mattered for her,” Mower said.

This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement and may not contain the full scope of findings.

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About the Author

Julie Applegate is a long-time resident and fan of Southern Utah. She brings a strong background in news writing and editing, formerly as a full-time member of the St. George News team and currently as a contributor. Julie spent several years in the software industry. She believes strongly in the role of responsible news media in society, especially at the local level.
In her spare time, Julie can be found exploring Southern Utah on foot and by four-wheel drive or spending time with her family.

5 Comments

Sadly many teens & often the elderly Lack the ability to properly judge on coming traffic when making left hand turns .
I do Not know what constitutes drivers training these days but some serious coaching time from parents might be beneficial .

I couldn’t agree with you more!!! I honestly believe the parents feel the schools drivers ed is responsible for teaching their kids how to drive, why because we pay them!!! I took 2 of my 3 out and taught them I didn’t leave it up to some stranger!!! And am I glad I didn’t!!! The horror stories I was told about what the instructors taught them is unbelievable!!! Parents need to stop being so … lazy and teach their own kids and stop leaving up to others to do their job!!! If that happened more, maybe there wouldn’t be so many teen accidents!!! JS
Ed. ellipsis.

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Do you honestly think it’s a good idea to point fingers at the parents of this unfortunate young lady? What if her mother or father were to read this. It would only amplify the guilt I’m sure they are already feeling. Think before you post people.

don’t think she’s blaming the victim at all. I think we’d all be better off if the driver’s training period for teens lasted about 3 years. It would be a provisional license with lots of restrictions and ongoing training all 3 years.

Do you honestly think it’s a good idea to point fingers at the parents of this unfortunate young lady? What if her mother or father were to read this. It would only amplify the guilt I’m sure they are already feeling. Think before you post people.